God’s Hand in Meeting Our Needs
2 Kings 4:1–7
Have you ever faced an immense need that you felt would be impossible to meet? An obstacle so significant that you were dwelling in its shadow? A crisis that caused you to be shaken to your very core?
If each of us lives long enough, we will face challenges that cannot be quickly solved or dismissed.
These are the moments when our faith is put to the test.
Someone once said, “A faith that cannot be tested cannot be trusted.” While there is some truth in that quote, it does not lessen our fears or make the situation less daunting.
In these experiences, we do not need a sermon, a lecture or instructions. We do not desire to hear that everyone goes through tough times and that they will soon pass.
What we need most is mercy. Our benevolent Father extends mercy to us all without comparison or rivalry.
Without His mercy, there is no salvation. Without mercy, we would never know the name of Jesus or the salvation He provides.
Cry out to God for help in your time of need. (1–2)
In one of the most powerfully vivid stories from the life of Elisha, we are introduced to a widow in need. Her husband, a noted servant of the Lord, had recently died, and she had fallen on challenging times financially.
The bills were past due, and she could not make ends meet. In that day and culture, her sons could have been taken from her and sold into servitude to satisfy the debt.
In her humility and appeal for help, the Lord used Elisha to answer her cries.
Whether financial or otherwise, it should be noted that there are times when we all need help.
We should be humble enough to seek the Lord when those times come.
Prepare and plan for God to provide abundantly. (3–4)
Our willingness to obey God’s Word is directly connected to the measure of our faith. If we do not fully trust God’s words, we will not be as quick as we should be in obeying Him.
God may not speak in an audible voice, but He will use His messengers to share the truths of His word to serve as a reminder, challenge and instruction.
Many people say they believe in God, but their lack of trust in His word and resulting obedience indicate otherwise.
This willing widow was on the verge of having her prayers answered.
Recognize God’s extraordinary provision. (5–7)
The beautiful conclusion to this story points to the mercy and goodness of God.
The heavenly Father provided the means and the measure she needed to meet her needs.
It is also a picture of grace when we visualize the abundant oil supply. The grace and atonement of God are not limited by our rationale, logic or what we think is best.
Each day, He meets our needs, a truth which we largely ignore. Let us do better. Our God is a giving God. His open hands meet our every need. Trust His Word and be blessed.
EDITOR’S NOTE — The Sunday School lesson outlines are provided by Lifeway.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
