Friday, December 31, 2010

God is into the Veggies too
By Elin Henderson

“But my God shall supply ALL your need…”
Philippians 4:19a (NKJV)

God is so good to remind us constantly that He is into the small stuff, just like He is into the big stuff! One dilemma I face monthly is how to get fresh produce brought into where we live. We are pretty well removed from the outside world here in the African Bush. The closest grocery store of size is about a six-hour drive away. We go out approximately every three months to buy supplies. Obviously, some things you can’t buy in bulk and store, like fresh fruits and veggies. Unfortunately the people here grow basically nothing but manioc (a root like a potato or sweet potato but starchier) and coconuts! Let’s just say, they aren’t as concerned with the four food groups and programs like “Eat 5 a day.” More like “Just plain EAT Today” is their goal with food scarce and variety unheard of! So, keeping my family fed with nutritious food is challenging, to say the least.

Each month, I get to trust the Lord for the little things like figuring out how to not only get my produce to last as long as possible (with temperatures soaring into the triple digits that is no small challenge!) but also how to get a fresh supply in. We don’t get regular supply runs, so we rely on just the usual comings and goings of visitors. Despite noble efforts, our garden fails to yield much…especially in the “hot” season, which encompasses about ten months of the year! Yet, each month, I never cease to be amazed at the Lord’s tremendous provision and how He cares about the little things when we commit them to Him! There has hardly been a month go by when He doesn’t work out a trip to or from our support base where I can get my supplies refreshed!

So, next time you are faced with a dilemma, remember that God is into the “veggies” of our life, not just the BIG stuff! He cares about the little concerns that press upon our hearts and minds. May you find His timely and abundant provision available and sufficient in your time of need, as well!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Make a list of the little concerns that are pressing upon your heart these days. As you list them, ask the Lord to help you remember He is in the small stuff!
2. How did the Father take care of the little “veggie” needs of His Son, Jesus, during His time here on earth(rest, food, family, strength…)? How can you apply that to your needs?

FURTHER READING:
Matthew 6; Luke 11:13

Oakwood’s missionaries Elin Henderson and her husband Phil serve as church planters with New Tribes in Mozambique, Africa. Elin is mother to ten-year-old Callie and eight-year-old Elias.
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