Above and Beyond

Ephesians 3:20-21 “Now to Him Who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.”

These powerful words were spoken by George Mueller, a great man of prayer. He is known for the many orphanages that he started in England. Throughout his amazing ministry he never asked anyone for financial support and never went into debt. Early on he decided not to take a salary for his work, but to trust the Lord to supply all his needs.

One well-known story tells of God’s great provision for the orphans. The children sat down for breakfast one morning even though the kitchen was completely empty. They began to pray and before long there was a knock on the door. The town baker stopped by to deliver enough bread to feed the hungry youngsters. Soon afterwards there was another knock and the milkman offered them free milk because his cart had broken down right in front of their door.

No wonder Mr. Mueller had a secret satisfaction in the greatness of the difficulties. He knew that God was able to do above and beyond all that he could ask or think.

While providing for the children’s physical needs, George also fed them spiritually. Every morning after breakfast there was a time of prayer and Bible reading. The hearts of the little ones were strengthened with power through God’s Spirit so that in faith many came to know Jesus Christ as their savior. Those who were without a family came to comprehend the breadth and length and height and depth of the love of Christ and His power to deliver and provide.

Over his lifetime George Mueller managed five orphan homes, cared for over ten thousand orphans, and travelled over two hundred thousand miles doing mission work. In all this he prayed about everything and expected God to answer. And God was faithful!

So what are you asking God for?

God hears the cries of those who belong to Him and there is NOTHING that He can’t do. Develop a secret satisfaction in difficult situations – learn to delight in them. Because we have a God Who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that is at work within us.