2 Kings 6:16 “Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”

This is a story and a verse that I have liked for longer than I can remember. It certainly brings to mind what John said: “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4) We like to be on the stronger side! It has been said that “One plus God is a Majority,” which is true enough, but our faith often has trouble getting to that assurance. One of the strongest Biblical lessons on that point is that of Gideon. God reduced the numbers of those who were with him again and again because they were too many for God alone to get the credit that He deserved. (Judges 7:2-7) We tend to be very dependent emotionally on what we can confirm physically, whether it is numbers of people or numbers in a bank book. One of the lessons that is repeated throughout the Bible is that such things are never the final answer. If our focus is on God’s kingdom and His righteousness, then He takes care of all the rest. (Matthew 6:33)

We are certainly in the middle of a practicum on this very point. This church is embarking on a project that will cost close to a million dollars, when we don’t have much more than $10,000 in the bank. That’s certainly no problem for God, but it stretches our faith big time! The question is not how much we have on hand, but simply what God wants us to do. It has been said, very rightly, that “Where God guides, He provides.” Where we are right now in planning is deciding the level of care we will be offering in the elder-care facility we will build, because everything else will flow from that. I’ve got to do the research called for, but most of all be open to hear what God is saying. We can’t count on His provision if we aren’t being obedient! This is a major lesson in faith for all of the believers here, and a massive testimony to many in this city. I am to walk in assurance without presumption, which is certainly going to take the help of the Holy Spirit, because I can’t do it on my own. I am to look for, and look forward to, what God is doing, and stay in step with Him.

Father, these are exciting times. Thank You that I now have a ballpark estimate on the cost of the building, so that I can approach potential donors. Some I feel I am to approach are too old to consider lending us money, because they wouldn’t live to the payment date. I would be thrilled with offerings that would make loans unnecessary, but You know how You want to work this. Help me walk in peace, wherever Your road takes us, so that Your will may be done on Your schedule for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!