2 Kings 4:1-7 tells the story of a widow, who recently lost her husband and now finds herself in a financial nightmare.
With no money, creditors demanding payment and threatening to take her sons as slaves for repayment, this widow’s hope is dwindling by the second. The prophet Elisha asks her a simple question: “What do you have in your house?” (2 Kings 4:2). Her response, is a remark that we may have all expressed in similar situations: “Nothing there at all.” However, what she did have was the makings of a miracle that would prove to be more than what she could have ever imagined.
Often times, in the midst of life’s challenges, it’s difficult to identify what is right in front of us. Doubt and surrender eventually finds a comfortable spot to set up camp. Consequently, it becomes increasingly difficult to recognize the solution that God has already provided for our situation. Just like the widow who initially only saw a small jar of oil for a few remaining meals but later recognized that it was actually her meal ticket towards financial freedom. Through the prophet Elisha, God was able to turn a small jar of oil into an oil-producing business. This miracle afforded the widow the opportunity to pay off her husband’s large debt, retain possession of her sons and live comfortably into the future, all from what she considered just a small jar of oil.
As you continue to navigate through the new year, ask yourself (and God) the question, “what do I have?” Philippians 4:19 reminds us that God will meet all our needs, according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. However, He also wants us to remember that “lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth” (Proverbs 10:4). Elisha instructed the woman and her sons to be a part of the solution by going out and gathering as many jars as they could. He subsequently directed them to sell the oil. Thus, it is essential that we too make concerted efforts in resolving our own circumstances.
So, what is your oil? What has God already supplied for you, that you may not recognize is your key to a miracle? Whether it is a skill you learned back in high school, a dish you cook that everyone loves, a talent for words or writing, or even something seemingly insignificant like clutter in your garage or basement that could turn out valuable. The fact is God has already provided you with your oil. Will you allow Him to transform your small jar of oil into the next miracle?
Jermaine K. Jackson is associate treasurer of the Lake Union, as well as its stewardship director.
