WHEN YOUR PROVISIONS FALL SHORT
1 Kings 17:5–16
I realized something about my finances a long time ago. It may seem trivial to you, but it changed how I look at my bank balance. I concluded that if I didn’t have any bills, I would have much more money! Removing the car loan, internet, insurance and cell phone payments would significantly increase my surplus. Of course, that isn’t practical. Many of the bills we incur are necessary to live in this society. No one wants to go without electricity or a vehicle.
However, there may be times in your life when your finances are tight. Just a routine visit to the grocery store can remind you that even essentials are expensive.
Stress from a family’s income or expenses can often cause great turmoil. Sometimes frustration and impatience come from a person’s worry about their resources.
As Christians, we continually learn that God will always provide for our needs. The provisions He gives will be precisely what we need and will be granted to us in His perfect time.
God’s provision may not always come the way we expect. (5–7)
If you reflect on your prayer life and God’s responses to your prayers, you will find it difficult to recall a time when God answered exactly as you asked.
When He does respond, it is always better than what we could have imagined. This is because He is all-knowing, holy and sovereign. He not only understands what we truly need but also knows the perfect way to reveal Himself or answer our prayers. Don’t be disappointed when God answers you in a way you didn’t anticipate. Be thankful.
God’s provision often comes through others. (8–12)
Where would any of us be without the kindness and care we receive from others? The answer is, not very far. This story of Elijah and the widow is one of my favorites in all of Scripture. In this account, faith, obedience, trust, need, grace, provision and miracles all come together.
God uses people every day to accomplish His will and shine His light to others. Are you being used by God to bless others? Of course, the hero of the Bible will always be God, but isn’t it amazing when He uses us as part of the gospel story?
Scripture is filled with nameless and faceless people who serve as puzzle pieces in the incredible panorama of world history.
God’s provision comes when we trust and obey Him. (13–16)
Chances are you know the hymn “Trust and Obey.” If you do, you understand that its message is that the only way to find happiness in Jesus is to trust and obey. That’s more than just a catchy lyric; it’s the truth. It’s one of the Bible’s most important themes.
Acts of faith and obedience are linked to God’s satisfaction and blessings. There’s no limit to His provision and grace. How many blessings have we missed because of a lack of belief or trust in our wonderful Father? Our God is able. Are we obedient? As we prepare to start a new year, don’t forget that God is with you and will provide for you no matter what comes your way in 2026. Will you trust and obey?
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
