July 15, 2023 (God’s Provision)

There’s a theme of God’s provision that runs through the pages of scripture, like the ring of condensation left by my cold brew cup this morning—seeping, spreading, soaking through layer upon layer. It’s slow, yet sudden; gradual, yet instant; a moment-by-moment dispersal of living water. It’s God’s well-timed provision of:

Manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16)

A way out, in our moments of temptation (1 Cor 10:13)

Words to speak when we are called to bear witness (Matt 10:19)

Essential needs, so we don’t have to hoard, stockpile, or carry unnecessarily heavy loads as we go (Matt 6:26, 10:9-10)

In our moments of lack, we reach out for God. And in the greatest miracle of all, we find him: the alpha and omega; the beginning and the end. But also, the eternal. The one with us, in this very present moment. Emmanuel.

I’m reminding my heart: do not fret, or become anxious beforehand, wondering if God will provide, squandering away present, precious hours in worry and fear. There is no need. He will give as the hour draws near, just as Corrie ten Boom knew, and once touchingly wrote:

“Father sat down on the edge of the narrow bed. ‘Corrie,’ he began gently, ‘when you and I go to Amsterdam—when do I give you your ticket?’

I sniffed a few times, considering this.

‘Why, just before we get on the train.’

‘Exactly. And our wise Father in heaven knows when we're going to need things, too. Don't run out ahead of Him, Corrie. When the time comes (…), you will look into your heart and find the strength you need—just in time.’”