HAVE YOU MADE ROOM??

There is a powerful story about the late Dr. Lester Sumrall that illustrates this truth. During a season in his ministry, he trusted God for the resources to acquire a Hercules aircraft so he could distribute relief materials across the world. As he raised funds, the Lord asked him a simple but searching question: “Where will you park the plane when it comes?”

Though the aircraft was nowhere in sight, Dr. Sumrall took a bold step of faith. He used the resources he had already gathered to build a hangar. That act of preparation preceded a chain of miraculous events, and before long, the funds needed to purchase the plane came through.

“Sing, O barren, You who have not borne! Break forth into singing, and cry aloud, You who have not labored with child! For more are the children of the desolate Than the children of the married woman,” says the Lord. “Enlarge the place of your tent, And let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; Do not spare; Lengthen your cords, And strengthen your stakes.” Isaiah 54:1–2 (NKJV)

Faith is not only about believing God for the future, it is also about preparing for it.

In spiritual terms, supply often follows readiness.

This principle is clearly illustrated in 2 Kings 4. A widow, overwhelmed by debt, came to the prophet Elisha for help. His instruction was specific: she was to borrow empty vessels; not just a few, but as many as possible. The miracle did not begin until the vessels were gathered. As long as there were containers available, the oil kept flowing. But the moment the vessels ran out, the oil stopped.

“…when the vessels were full, she said to her son, ‘Bring me another vessel.’ And he said to her, ‘There is not another vessel.’ So the oil ceased.”

 2 Kings 4:6 (NKJV)

The lesson is unmistakable: the level of preparation determined the level of supply. God’s provision flowed in direct proportion to the space that was made available for it.

If you are trusting God for increase spiritually, financially, or in any area of life, ask yourself this question: Have I made room for what I am believing for? Faith that expects much must also prepare much.

Always allow preparation to run ahead of expectation.

Further Study: Philemon 1:4–22

Prayer: Lord, help me to fully express my faith through intentional and timely preparation.