Divine Provision During the Time of Trouble

During the time of trouble, the people of God will not have stocks of food provided by their own foresight or storage, but will instead rely entirely on the miraculous provision of the Lord3SG 251.2+1. While it is natural to worry about future wants or the suffering of children, we are called to trust that our bread and water will be sure in that day Isaiah 43:3+13SG 251.2+1.

The Nature of Provision During the Time of Trouble

• Bread and Water: In the time of trouble, stern necessity will compel the people of God to live on simple bread and water21MR 375.2+1. Although many currently shrink from the idea of a plain diet, this is all that is promised to the remnant in that final crisis3SG 251.2.

• Divine Assurance: God is fully able to spread a table for His children in the wilderness, just as He provided manna for the Israelites and sent ravens to feed Elijah 1 Kings 19:6HOMI September 1893, page 172.7+1.

• Enduring the Change: Those who have not prepared their hearts through faith may murmur against God when they can no longer access the "flesh pots" of the world and must rely on what comes from His hand3SG 251.2+1.

Trusting God for the Future

We must not sink into despondency or gloom by anticipating future want3SG 251.2. The Lord requires us to live by faith today, understanding that self-sacrifice and restraint upon unhealthy appetites now will help prepare us for the trials ahead3SG 251.2+1. Just as the widow’s bread and water did not fail because the Lord awakened sympathy and kindness, He will watch over the trusting Christian so that nothing of value is lost4bSG 99.1+1.

Focus on the Present Mission

Rather than becoming absorbed in establishing large food factories or stores as a safeguard for the future, our talents and money should be used to give the last message of mercy to the world17MR 296.1+2. Our time is short, and we are encouraged to invest wisely in the proclamation of the truth rather than being bound down by commercial interests or mechanical employment17MR 287.2+2. Those who follow the example of Christ will find that to give is to live, and the life freely given in service to God is the one that will be preserved unto life eternalDA 623.5+1.