By AFBC Staff

Do you ever doubt that God will provide for your needs?

On Sunday, Kristi Sullins taught the 4 year olds of AFBC an important lesson about how God provides for our needs. Sharing from the story of Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17: 8-16), Kristi recounted how this widow was down to the last meal for she and her son when Elijah came along seeking food. Kristi creatively painted a picture of the widow’s obedience to God by feeding Elijah and how God blessed her for it.

As the children sat crowded on the rug in their small classroom they drew pictures of their needs. “Food,” was a quick response from Kariela Polich, “watermelon.” “Mac and cheese,” Aidan McFadden chimed in. Soon the children were all shouting out their favorites.

“Friends” became a common reply and it was precious watching the children wrap their arms around one another affirming that response. Yes, we all need friends. God often provides for our needs through friends.

The children’s list continued to grow. Clothes, a house, mom and dad were all things of high priority to our children. It was evident they understood the concept of need, but their understanding was on a very basic, very personal level.

Across the building in the PreTeen classroom the discussion was quite different. These kids in grades 5 and 6 have a greater understanding of need. Since their preschool days they have been taught Bible stories that demonstrated how God provides. Now at this stage of instruction they can look beyond the personal level. They have listened as Pastor Cook has shared the needs of our church family.

When asked for their thoughts about the Hope Effort, they excitedly offered their opinions. James Woffard spoke up and said, “Our preschool classes are full and they need more room.” Carolyne Savage quickly agreed, “Most of us are packed to the eaves.” Students Kendall Mitchell, Bailey Dobson and Mikaela Glade chimed in saying that the more space we have the more people can come to our church.

Out of the minds and mouths of youth often come the most profound words, “We need to expand for the next generation.” Mady Kettler is not just thinking about today but she’s looking toward tomorrow.

Coming from a different perspective Sophia Sullins said, “Kids are loud and wild and they need a place to be free.” Looking at things on a more personal level, Jeremiah Leetham commented, “With more room we won’t have to sit on the floor.” To which the girls all responded that they like sitting on the floor. Maybe chairs are not as much of a need when you are a preteen.

Not to be left out, the always practical Jameson Anderson who helps Robert lead this group said, “Saving $50,000 is good!” Robert Thomas summed it all up. “It’s like we’re trapped in a flower pot that’s too small. We need a bigger pot so that our plant can grow.” Well said, Robert.

Seriously, the students in the PreTeen class recognize the challenge before us. They understand that they need to be part of the solution. And they trust that as they are obedient God will provide.

What about you? Are you a little anxious like the Widow of Zarephath, wondering if you will have enough. Are you willing to take that step of faith and give of what you have?

She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family. For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah.

1 Kings 17:15-16 NIV