Just in Time

Trusting God’s Provision

Last year, we visited Harlem and stood outside the home where Corrie ten Boom once lived. Though the street has changed with time, the spirit of her courage and faith still lingers there. It was deeply moving to stand in the very place where she and her family risked everything to shelter Jews during World War II. Corrie’s life remains a powerful witness to God’s faithfulness—even in the darkest times.

She once told a story from her childhood that continues to speak deeply: as a little girl, she worried she wouldn’t be strong enough to suffer for Christ. Her father responded with wisdom: “When you take a train trip to Amsterdam, when do I give you the ticket?” She answered, “Just before we get on the train.” He nodded, “Exactly. And so it is with God. He gives you the strength you need—just in time.”

Jesus Himself assures us of the same: “Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him” (Matthew 6:8). That’s the kind of God we serve—one who sees ahead, knows our needs, and provides at the right moment.

This truth echoes in Scripture through the life of Elijah. In 1 Kings 17, God sends Elijah to speak a hard truth, then leads him into hiding. In the wilderness, ravens feed him with bread and meat. When the brook runs dry, God opens a new door—a poor widow in Zarephath who, though she has almost nothing, becomes God’s vessel of provision. Elijah tells her: “The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the land” (1 Kings 17:14). And it was so.

Paul reminds us: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). And Jesus teaches us to pray: “Give us this day our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11)—a call to daily dependence on God.

God doesn’t promise to show us tomorrow’s provision today. But He does promise to meet us where we are, with what we need—just in time. What are you facing that feels uncertain or empty? Like Elijah and Corrie, trust and obey. God’s sustaining power may come through unexpected means, but it will come.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for Your daily faithfulness. When our brooks dry up and our hands feel empty, help us trust that You are already making a way. Teach us to walk in obedience, give with generosity, and trust You fully. Just as You did for Elijah—and Corrie—provide for us, creatively and compassionately, just in time. Amen.