God's Provision

It was a momentous occasion. The Jews who had returned to Jerusalem from captivity in Babylon had laid the foundation of the new temple (Ezra 3:10-13). Many rejoiced. Yet, some who had seen the former temple wept. Presumably, the new temple already paled in comparison to the previous one built by King Solomon.

Sometimes, I’m underwhelmed by God’s provision, especially when it does not meet my expectations or seems inferior to His past provision. Yet, God’s provision is always right. Even though the new temple would be smaller and less majestic, it was still the right temple. As I receive God’s provision today, I am thankful that what He provides is just right.

As a student at Trinity Western University back in the 80s, I became heavily involved in student leadership. During one of my trips home to visit family in Caronport, Saskatchewan, I had a conversation with Dr. Henry Hildebrand, the founder of Briercrest. I told him how I felt overwhelmed because I was such a young leader. I wasn’t sure how I could manage all of my responsibilities. With the utmost humility and a twinkle in his eye, Dr. Hildebrand said, “Ah, don’t worry, Randy. By the time I was your age, I had started a Bible College.” It was just what I needed to hear. If God wanted me to do something, He would provide the resources to do it. Sometimes, one sentence can shape us in remarkable ways.

"We are, however, anxious to obey God rather than men. If He continues to lead us in this direction, we will follow, regardless of man's opinion. We fully realize that under the economic conditions prevailing here it will require a great deal of faith to proceed. We have had six crop failures. Ninety percent of the people are on relief. We are, however, blessed with some dozens of praying Christians who are endowed with enough faith to move mountains" (a quote from Dr. Hildebrand as he contemplated starting Briercrest - http://www.briercrest.ca/college/about-briercrest/history).