“Bountiful blessings of provision await your loving obedience to do the next brave thing.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today –May 29, 2023
And he said, Thus saith the Lord, Make this valley full of ditches. For thus saith the Lord, Ye shall not see wind, neither shall ye see rain; yet that valley shall be filled with water, that ye may drink, both ye and your cattle, and your beasts. 2 Kings 3:16-17
What is God asking you to do? Be assured that whatever the Lord is leading you to do…it is best for you. Though His divine request may require significant effort with unclear outcomes, work with an eye of faith fixed on the faithfulness of your heavenly Father. His ways, though not your ways, are still the best way in the long term. Little delicacies of disobedience can distract you, so be aware of short-term solutions that only carry the morsels of your efforts without the Spirit’s fruitful results. It is much better to remain faithful in the arduous work of digging and removing obstacles and then be able to marvel with amazement at God’s unconventional provision. His glory is assured when you follow His sure steps, one step of obedience at a time. He provides!
Scripture preserves a dramatic occasion of three powerful men unable to provide for their armies. Feeling powerless over their drought, the kings inquired of Elisha, the prophet of God, for guidance. Wisely, leadership turned toward the Lord instead of trying to cover up the crisis. Humility accepts hard realities and confesses total trust in God. Elisha, in the moment, followed the model of his mentor Elijah; (preceded by worship), and spoke hard truth to the faces of power. The musician played melodies in praise to heaven, and the hand of the Lord moved the man of God with bold instruction. Swiftly they obediently dug ditches, and the Lord filled them with water. God’s timing and process provided more than enough…after their humble obedience.
“Made Himself [Jesus] of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even death on the cross. Therefore, God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name” (Philippians 2:7-9).
Perhaps there is a blessing of provision waiting to follow your obedience. Stay in the process; though it may seem like shoveling hard soil, the exertion of your emotional and physical energy is not in vain. Digging is sweaty and not a fun experience, but God’s provision will follow your faithfulness to exhibit hard love. Invite in often the praise and worship of God’s people to point your heart to your generous provider…God the Father, Son, and Spirit. Abundant provision of forgiveness, peace, and security await your humble heart. Your divine owners may direct you to increase your giving so your heart of faith, love, and hope grows even stronger in your uncertain days. Bountiful blessings of provision await your loving obedience to do the next brave thing.
Charles Spurgeon once again describes with beauty and boldness our preparation and God’s provision, “If we expect to obtain the Holy Spirit’s blessing, we must prepare for his reception. ‘Make this valley full of trenches’ is an order which is given to me this morning for the members of this church; make ready for the Holy Ghost’s power; be prepared to receive that which he is about to give; each man in his place and each woman in her sphere, make the whole of this church full of trenches for the reception of the divine water-floods.” Your preparation through obedience gives the Holy Spirit permission to fill you with all wisdom, strength, and joy!
“Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear of God” (Ephesians 5:18-21).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me the faith and perseverance to do the hard things through Christ’s love, and in Jesus’ name, amen.
Application
Sit in silence and solitude, listening to praise and worship to the Lord. Then seek out godly counsel to confirm what you believe the Lord has put on your heart.
Related Reading
Genesis 3:21; Psalm 81:10; Matthew 6:26; Philippians 4:19
Worship Resource
CityAlight: Your Will be Done (Acoustic)
Donate
If you are blessed by these daily devotionals please prayerfully consider a donation to support Wisdom Hunters Resources. We are trusting the Lord for His provision.
Download our app!
