An unbroken chain of needed supplies is crucial to any successful military campaign. Those who have studied the matter tell us that, without necessary food and clothing, advanced training and weaponry have limited effect.
We listen with interest to those working diligently to supply the needs of those serving on the front lines in our battle against the Coronavirus. “Stockpiles” and “air bridges” are frequently used terms in our descriptions of what we are doing to get much-needed supplies to those who need them most.
In Christ, we have calm assurance that we will able to “fight the good fight” and gain the victory that is promised to those who stand with Jesus (1 Tim. 1:18; Rev. 17:14; 1 Jn. 5:4). What we have in Christ is an abundant source of blessing to meet every physical, emotional and spiritual need. When we grow discouraged, God provides strength (1 Pet. 4:11; Eph. 6:10). When we are tempted, He provides the way of escape (1 Cor. 10:13). When fear rises from within, His loving comfort provides peace (2 Cor. 1:3-5; 1 Pet. 5:6-7).
God’s supply has no deficit so far as supplying us with what we need to carry out His will. Although Paul learned contentment (Ph. 4:11), he freely confessed that “God is able to make all grace abound…so that always having all sufficiency in everything,” we might “have an abundance for every good deed” (2 Cor. 9:8). He responds in a similar way to the generosity of the Philippian brethren, saying, “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Ph. 4:19).
God often uses His people as instruments through whom He meets the needs of others. This is our special blessing from God—that, as we meet the needs of others, He provides for our own needs. Jesus says, “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Mt. 6:33). In all that we do for others, we seek a corresponding overflow of thanksgivings to God (2 Cor. 9:12). Let us, therefore, “draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hb. 4:16).
–Glen Elliott–