Things looked bleak for the children in George Muller’s orphanage at Ashley Downs in England. Muller had built his ministry as a model of how God would provide for him with no specific requests for support.
But on this day, it was time for breakfast, and the cupboards were bare. There was no food in the kitchen, no money in the bank. A small girl whose father was a close friend of Muller was visiting in the home. Muller took her hand and said, “Come and see what our Father will do.”
In the dining room, long tables were set with empty plates and empty mugs. Muller gathered the children together and prayed, “Dear Father, we thank You for what You are going to give us to eat.”
Immediately, they heard a knock at the door. When they opened it, there stood the local baker. “Mr. Muller,” he said, “I couldn’t sleep last night. Somehow I felt you had no bread for breakfast, so I got up at 2:00 this morning and baked fresh bread. Here it is.” Muller thanked him and gave praise to God.
Soon, a second knock was heard. It was the milkman. His cart had broken down in front of the orphanage. He said he would like to give the children the milk so he could empty the cart and repair it.
Alexander the Great had a famous philosopher in his court. Outstanding ability, but little money. He asked Alexander for financial help and was told he could draw whatever cash he needed from the imperial treasury.
What would you ask for?
When the philosopher submitted a request for an amount equal to $50,000, the treasurer promptly refused. He had to verify that such a large sum was indeed authorized.
Alexander’s reply: “Pay the money at once. The philosopher has done me a singular honor. By the largeness of his request he shows that he has understood both my wealth and generosity.”
Quick question: How wealthy and generous is God?
Quick answer: As wealthy and generous as you ask and expect.
A few Christmases ago, my daughter asked for and received a nice digital camera. To be honest, it was outside our budget. But we found a way. We got together with other family members and made it happen. Why? Because when my children ask for bread, I don’t respond by giving them stones or lumps of coal. Obviously, if it’s completely beyond my ability, I must say no. But what if they had a Father who had no limitations?
They do. Come and see what He can do.
I was asleep, and dreaming. And God was talking. Here’s the jist of what He said: “My people are powerless because deep down inside, they think that if they ask for a fish, I’m going to give them a snake.”
The implication: “Come and see what I can do.”
How wealthy and generous do you expect God to be to you? I can still hear those haunting words of Jesus: “According to your faith be it done unto you….”
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Andy, this post was exactly what I needed to read today . . . I’m considering writing a blog about God’s generosity and provisions which come when least we expect it and when we are trusting fully in Him. If I do write this, could I put a link on my post to your blog here? I’d be honored to feature you on Meditations of My Heart.
Speaking of featuring you, if you would ever like to write a guest post for my blog, just say the word (and send the post – 🙂 ).
Blessings to you!
Martha Orlando´s last blog post ..Going the Extra Mile
Absolutely! Anytime, for any reason, friend. Thanks for the encouragement and support. And I just may take you up on that GP soon. 🙂
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