Surprising Ways

Bible Reading: Matthew 6:25-34

“This state park is really nice, isn’t it?” Dad asked as he and Clark walked along a wooded path.

“Huh? Oh, yeah,” Clark mumbled in response. But he hadn’t really noticed—he’d been too busy wondering if Dad would be able to find a new job. The place where his dad worked was going out of business. “Dad, what if we run out of money for food and stuff?”

Dad was about to answer, but then he saw where Clark was walking. “Clark, watch out for that poison ivy! Stay on the path.”

But the warning came too late. Clark had already wandered off to the side. He stopped and looked down at the patch of low bushes around his feet. “Poison ivy!” He groaned and quickly returned to the path. “Now I’ll be itching all weekend!”

“Maybe not,” said Dad. He pointed to a tall plant with orange-spotted, horn-shaped flowers. “Here’s something that might help you.”

“What’s that?” asked Clark.

“It’s called jewelweed, and I’ve used it before when I’ve gotten into poison ivy.” Dad broke off some leaves, crushed them in his hand, and handed them to Clark. “Rub these over your legs. It ought to stop the poison ivy reaction.”

“Really?” Clark rubbed the leaves on his bare legs, hoping Dad was right. And as they continued their walk, Clark was careful to avoid further contact with the poisonous weed.

When Clark was getting ready to go to bed that night, Dad stopped at his room. “So how are your legs?” he asked.

“My legs?” repeated Clark. Then he remembered—the poison ivy! He looked down. “The poison ivy isn’t doing anything!” He grinned at his dad. “The jewelweed really worked. Wow! Medicine for poison ivy in the middle of the woods!”

Dad nodded. “God often provides for us in surprising ways,” he said. “We should always remember that. I know we’ve all been concerned about my job, but if God can provide a poison ivy cure in the middle of the woods—or more importantly, provide a way to save us from sin through His own Son, Jesus—He certainly can provide for our family’s needs as well. We don’t need to worry. God is with us, and we can trust Him.” – Jane K. Chase

How About You?

Are you worried about something right now? Maybe a family member is sick or a parent is out of work. No matter what it is, trust God to take care of you. He may not give you everything you want, but you may be surprised by the way He provides for you. Depend on Him to provide what you need and always be with you.

Today’s Key Verse:
Philippians 4:19 God shall supply all your need according to
His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Trust God to provide for you