We can give thanks and praise because the Lord provides. This is a comforting thought. You may have experienced God’s provision that strengthened your faith and met your needs in ways you never thought possible. Knowing the Lord provides can be faith-stretching. We like to be in control of our lives, but when we begin to follow the Lord, we need to turn the reins over to Him. One of the names of God found in the Bible is Jehovah Jireh or God Provides. The first mention of this name is in the story of Abraham.
Paul wrote about God’s remarkable provision in his life.Philippians 4:19And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. [1] When Paul wrote these words, he was speaking from his own experience in life. When Paul went on his three missionary journeys, he had many needs, including safety. Paul was imprisoned, persecuted, and suffered at the hands of those who despised him. Yet the Lord faithfully met his needs as he journeyed through life. The Lord would never let Paul down and provided for him, whether in plenty or need. Paul indeed experienced God’s providing hand.
The Lord Provided for the Israelites
The Lord stirred the heart of King Cyrus of Persia to help the people of Israel rebuild the Temple destroyed by the Babylonians. Part of this help was financial provision. Ezra 1: 4 Wherever this Jewish remnant is found, let their neighbors contribute toward their expenses by giving them silver and gold, supplies for the journey, and livestock, as well as a voluntary offering for the Temple of God in Jerusalem.” [2] Think how these generous gifts would have blessed the Israelites as they returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple. The Lord provides because He is loving and giving.
Place Your Trust for Provision in Your Heavenly Father Alone
Take the weight of provision off your shoulders and place it squarely on the Lord’s. We can trust that the Lord is our provision. Stop looking to others or to circumstances to give you what you need. Look to God alone. Rest in his peace and love as you settle into a lifestyle of trusting Him. Remember, not a day goes by when the Lord does not provide for the air we breathe, food, housing, water, clothing, etc. Most importantly, the Lord has provided a Savior for us, Jesus Christ. All those who place their faith in Jesus have eternal life. Wow! We have a fantastic provider.
To learn how the Lord provides, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/journey-return
[1] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Php 4:19). Tyndale House Publishers.
[2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Ezr 1:4). Tyndale House Publishers.