In the Philippines, August is known as the “lean month.” Families often struggle because enrollment expenses in June and July drain finances. Farmers are hit hard as the rainy season damages crops, and floods add to the burden.
On Negros Island, people wait for the “ber” months when sugarcane milling begins, and money circulates again. It is in these times of lack that we are reminded of God’s faithfulness: He is our Provider.
The Bible tells us countless stories of God meeting the needs of His people; not only during times of abundance but especially in times of scarcity.
First, trust God’s provision.
During the time of Elijah, Israel was experiencing a severe drought. Agriculture-based societies like Israel depended heavily on rain for survival.
Without crops, there was famine. The widow of Zarephath had only a handful of flour and a little oil left when Elijah asked her to prepare bread.
Scarcity is part of human life. Just as August is lean for us in the Philippines, ancient Israel experienced lean seasons too. Yet God commanded the widow to provide for Elijah, and in turn, God multiplied her flour and oil until the famine ended.
When our resources run low, we must remember that God can make a little go a long way. Whether it’s a sack of rice lasting longer than expected, or a small income stretched for family needs, God’s hand of provision is at work.
Scarcity is not the absence of God’s care; it is the opportunity to see His miracle.
Second, receive God’s provision through His people.
The early church in Jerusalem lived in difficult times under Roman taxation and economic pressure. Many Christians were poor, persecuted, and marginalized. Yet they shared everything they had so that no one was in need as we can see in the book of Acts.
God often provides not just through miracles but also through people. The church became God’s channel of provision. Unity and generosity became their testimony to the world.
In our community, when someone struggles financially, it is an opportunity for the church family to act. God calls us to be generous, to extend help, and to be channels of His provision. God’s provision flows best when His people open their hands.
As we face the coming “ber” months with hopes of financial relief, let us not put our trust only in crops, businesses, or salary cycles.
Let us fix our eyes on the Lord of harvest. The future is uncertain, but the Provider is unchanging.
Let us hold on to what Philippians 4:19 says, “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” | NWI
