God Will Satisfy the Hungry

“You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the name of the LORD your God, who has worked wonders for you; never again will my people be shamed.” —Joel 2:26, NIV

After I immigrated to the United States, life was difficult, but our God continued to prove Himself faithful and a very present help in the time of need.

When a friend, whom I had not seen since our college days, excitedly told me she would be in the country and would try her best to visit me, I was thrilled.

Though her visit would be short, we looked forward to seeing one another.

I did not have much time to prepare. She planned to arrive the next day on Friday and would leave early Sunday morning. As I prepared for her visit, I realized I did not have a protein dish for her Sabbath lunch. I knew we were going to have rice and veggie mince, but she is allergic to soy. My excitement began to dwindle as I stressed over trying to figure out a substitute for her lunch. Everything I came up with required money—which I did not have.

I sat down for a moment and started to share my heart with God.

Lord, I am delighted my friend is coming to see me.

I really appreciate the her effort and would like to have a good time.

Right now, I am feeling ashamed that I do not have anything to give her to eat.

My God, is there anything You cannot do? Please provide something she will enjoy, I beg You. Day turned to night, and Friday arrived—but no answer came.

My friend would be arriving soon, and I was riddled with stress.

Around mid-morning, I heard a car horn sounding at my gate.

I looked through the window and saw my friend Sandra beckoning me to come quickly. She handed me a bag and sped off. My friends, guess what was in the bag? One large king-sized snapper fish and a family-sized box of cereal.

“Oh, God! You are above all I can imagine! You have provided, once again! Hallelujah! Praise Your name, oh faithful God! You are always on time, and You will not let shame come on your child.” My friend arrived, and we enjoyed an awesome experience sharing fond memories and God’s overflowing blessings—and we had more than enough to eat.

“And my God will give you everything you need because of His great riches in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19, NLV).

Lorraine Brooks-Williams