Many times, when we face trials, we often turn to prayer only as a last resort. For example, there was the man who was fighting a valiant battle with cancer. As people observed the gradual effect on his body and lifestyle, one person said, "Well, they've tried everything else. I guess it's time to begin praying." Another man was going through an extremely difficult time at work, and he just couldn't resolve his overwhelming problems. Finally, he said, "I've tried everything I know to get through this situation, and nothing has worked. It's time to start praying."

In both of these instances, prayer was seen as a last-ditch effort to resolve the problem. Only after all other options were eliminated did the person decide to pray. Instead of prayer being a last resort, it should be one of the first things we do.

George Mueller learned firsthand to depend on God for even the smallest of his needs. And so, he did in every area of his life and ministry after surrendering his life to the Lord. In the late 1800's he had dedicated a large part of his ministry to orphaned children. One morning, George was informed that the pantry was empty and there would be no meal that day. However, he called all the children and staff together and prayed thanking God for the provision of food as they always did, even though this day, there was no food on the table. A few moments later a baker knocked on the door and told Mr. Mueller that God had led him to bake bread the night before and give it to the orphanage today. Before the bread was given to the children, a milkman knocked on the door announcing that his milk truck had broken down and the milk would spoil while he waited for the wheel to be fixed, so he wondered if the orphanage could use some free milk.

God is ready and willing to provide for our needs; all we have to do is ask. The Lord answers prayer, and He wants us to come to Him continually with all of our needs. The Bible tells us to "be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer ... let your requests be made known to God". Rather than praying when you're worried about a specific situation, make sure to pray constantly so that you'll be blessed every day.

Suggested Prayer: Dear Lord, you are so merciful to care for my needs and answer when I pray. Thank you for providing for me in your time. I am so blessed to be able to lay my anxiety down at your feet and rest. In Jesus' name, Amen.

1. Philippians 4:6-7 (NASB).

Today's Encounter was written by: Veronica B.