I Kings 3:5‑15 (11)
An online survey asked the question, “If a genie would grant you three wishes, what would you ask?â€Â Some of the responses were: One respondent requested 1) Enough money to live comfortably for the rest of my life 2) For me and my family to live happy, healthy long lives 3) For me to be successful in everything I try. Another asked for 1) $10,000,000.00 2) A tenure-track job when I finish my degree. 3) A car with an automatic transmission. Probably the most intelligent response in the survey was 1) Nothing…I don’t trust genies.
Solomon had a similar experience. He was given a blank check by God. If he wrote in the right amount God would sign the check. Solomon was granted his wish because he selflessly asked for wisdom that would help him successfully accomplish the ministry God had given him. At that time in his life, his priorities were right. How about you? Your choices concerning what you buy, what you do in your spare time, and your lifestyle are the priorities that are guiding God’s participation in your work of ministry. How are you doing?
by Dr. Gayle Woods
Gen 22:5-14 (14)
I was fascinated as the ranching couple told of the miraculous hand of God that had blessed their lives. On one occasion they leased some drills on a buy/lease program. After several years they could buy the drills for the salvage price. They needed the drills in order to plant their seed. Unfortunately they did not have money to buy the drills.
First, they asked for time to raise the money. As the deadline neared they still had no money to buy the drills. Finally they had to allow the drills to be repossessed.
The men who came to pick up the drills were invited in for coffee before loading the truck. While they visited, a neighboring rancher walked into the house. He said, “I see that you are busy so I won’t stay. I just needed to buy some of your seed. I know how much I need and will load it myself.” He wrote a check for the seed and left it lying on the counter top.
When the rancher picked up the check he saw that the check was written for the exact amount that was needed to pay off the drills. God had provided in time with the correct amount to meet the need.
God has a reputation for taking care of His people. This is what caused Him to send His only Son to try on human flesh that first Christmas day. He came to provide. God has done so well in taking care of us that His people at times called Him, Jehovah Jireh (God will Provide).
Dr. Gayle Woods
