Monday, June 15, 2009

More Jars

"'Bring me another jar,' she said to one of her sons. 'There aren't any more!' he told her. And then the olive oil stopped flowing." 2 Kings 4:6

This story of the poor widow in 2 Kings is just so beautiful for so many reasons. What a precious heart this woman displayed. She cries out in her need. She responds in obedience. She walks out her faith. The Lord responds and supplies not only for her now, but for her future.

One thought kept returning though as I read through this account. The prophet Elisha had instructed her to borrow as many empty jars as she could from neighbours and friends, and then pour olive oil from her flask into the jars, setting each one aside after it was filled. I can only guess she had no idea what was really going to happen, because I believe if she had truly understood she would have had her sons on an endless quest, going from town to town, bringing home more and more empty jars. Would she have extended her search if she had realized the blessing she was about to receive? Maybe she wouldn't have "shut the door" so soon.

God always can give more than we ask. I love how the Biblegateway commentary expressed this, "were there more vessels, there is enough in God to fill them; enough for all, enough for each; and the Redeemer's all-sufficiency will only be stayed from the supplying the wants of sinners and saving their souls, when no more apply to him for salvation."

Sometimes we need a greater vision...a vision that welcomes more jars.



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3 comments:

Laura said...

I really needed this message this week, Joy. He can provide all we need.

Hope you are well. Still praying for your family, though I am behind on keeping up with you!

Lynn Cowell said...

Joy,
I read your comments today before I am reading my daily reading. Thank you for preparing me.
Your family continues to be in my prayers.
Lynn

On Purpose said...

What an amazing start to this day...knowing that more is all He knows!