For many years Estelle and her husband worked as missionaries, relying on the financial generosity of others while they shared the love of God through their ministry. Money was often tight. On one occasion, Estelle went into her room to pray about their lack of funds. Opening her Bible, she read these words: “This same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs” (Philippians 4:19). In that moment, the verse felt like a promise to her from God.
The apostle Paul knew what it was like to be in financial need. In his early days as a missionary, few churches supported him: “As you know, you Philippians were the only ones who gave me financial help” (Philippians 4:15). At times he even went hungry (Philippians 4:12). And while he had learned to be content through Jesus in such circumstances (Philippians 4:11), he was grateful for churches like Philippi whose donations helped him to press on. God had provided for Paul through their giving, and the Philippians could expect God to provide for them when they were in need as well. So could Estelle and her husband. The question now was how and when the provision would come.
There was a knock on the door as Estelle read her Bible. She answered it and found a young lady standing on the doorstep. “My friend asked me to give you this,” she said, handing Estelle an envelope. Estelle thanked the woman, closed the door, opened the envelope, and found it was full of cash. She quickly opened the door again to thank the mysterious visitor, but the woman was nowhere to be seen. The same God who had taken care of Paul had met all of Estelle’s needs (Philippians 4:19).
We can expect him to provide—in His own way and time—for us too.