Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

May 16– Evening

by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and edited by W. C. Neff

“Dig trenches in the dry riverbed, and though you will not see wind or rain, I will fill the trenches with water, so you and your livestock may drink.” 

—2 Kings 3:16,17

The armies of these three kings were dying of thirst after days of marching in the desert of Edom. They consulted the prophet Elisha, and he announced God was about to send water. Here was a case of human helplessness. Among many thousands of valiant solders, none were able to procure from the skies or find in the wells a single drop of water. In the same way, the Lord’s people must come to the end of their own abilities and resources to learn where their help is to be found.

Although the soldiers were dying of thirst, they were to dig trenches to catch the water the Lord was about to provide. This would require an act of faith in God’s Word to prepare for the divine blessing. The church by her organization, efforts, and prayers, must make herself ready to be blessed. She is commanded to dig trenches so that the Lord can fill them.

Suddenly, God’s blessing came. It did not come slowly as in Elijah’s case when the rain poured from the clouds, but in a silent and mysterious manner the dry books and trenches were filled. The Lord has his own sovereign modes of action. He is not tied to methods and deadlines as we are. He does as he pleases, and we need only to thankfully receive from him and not to dictate to him.

We must also notice the remarkable abundance of the supply. When the water came it was enough to meet the need of all; so it is in the gospel blessing. All the wants of the congregation and of the entire church are met by divine power in answer to prayer. God will use this blessing to bring speedy victory to the armies of the Lord. What trenches am I digging for Jesus? O Lord, make me ready to receive the blessing which you are so willing to give. [M&E]