Meat and potatoes...

"God often proves Himself when we feel we have the least to offer." - Beth Moore

I remember that day clearly.  Tim and I were in full-time ministry with two small children.  After paying bills, we only had a few dollars left in the bank with six days remaining until next Sunday's paycheck.  My heart sank as I realized we had to find a way to feed our babies.  As he left to visit church members, Tim asked if there was anything he could bring home.  I simply answered that if we could purchase a few potatoes and a pound of meat, we would somehow make it. 

After he left, I pray for God to protect Tim while traveling and for provision for our babies.  I put the children down for a nap and began working around the house.  Within minutes, someone knocked on the door.

There stood our precious friend, an elderly lady who lived minutes away.  She was smiling while holding a large, brown grocery bag.  "I just wanted to check on you all and bring you some potatoes from our garden. We have more than we need and I thought you might want some!"  There had to be at least fifteen pounds of potatoes in there.  I was shocked. I told her she was a gift from God...much more than she realized.  She laughed with her joyful spirit and went home.

Tim later returned home with a huge smile on his face...carrying a large, brown grocery bag, saying he didn't even go to the store.  He had visited one of the church members who, not knowing our situation, gave Tim a "surprise" to take home.  When we looked inside, it was full of meat!  We had prayed that we would have enough food to feed our family that week...and God not only provided, but He knew our specific "menu" and provided it in abundance.

God hears our prayers.  Sometimes His answers are obvious.  Other times, we must simply trust Him...when we understand nothing at the time.  It is no secret that He provides for our physical needs.  But when life is overwhelming, when cares and pain are beyond words, when we have no idea what to do, where to go or which decision to make...when no one else on the planet has any idea what is happening...I cling to Him!  I know that the God who put meat and potatoes on our table so we could feed our babies...is the same God who raised His Son from the dead...and holds us in His arms...lovingly, faithfully, unconditionally, compassionately and genuinely! When this world seems out of control, I know...my God cares!  When my life is down to nothing...I know...He is always up to something.  I may have little to offer...but God lovingly gave His best!  I will trust Him.  I will listen for Him.  I will seek Him.  I will wait.  I will believe.  I will lean on Him as He leads me on. Thank You, God, for never letting go of us! ♥~thl