Evening, January 13, edited from Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening

“And when he showed him the place, he cut off a stick and threw it in there, and made the iron float.” —2 Kings 6:6

The axe-head seemed hopelessly lost, and as it was borrowed, the honor of the prophetic band was likely to be imperiled, and likewise the name of their God to be compromised. Contrary to all expectations, the iron was made to mount from the depth of the stream and to float, for things impossible with man are possible with God. I knew a man in Christ but a few years ago who was called to undertake a work far exceeding his strength. It appeared so difficult as to involve absurdity in the bare idea of attempting it. Yet he was called to do it, and his faith rose with the occasion; God honored his faith, unanticipated aid was sent, and the iron did float. Another of the Lord’s family was in grievous financial straits; he would be able to meet all claims, and much more if he could have realized a certain portion of his estate, but he was overtaken with sudden financial pressure.  He sought for friends in vain, but faith led him to the unfailing Helper, and behold, the trouble was averted, his footsteps were extended, and the iron did float. A third had a sorrowful case of depravity to deal with. He had taught, reproved, warned, invited, and interceded, but all in vain. Old Adam was too strong for young Melanchthon; the stubborn spirit would not relent. Then came an agonized time of prayer, and before long a blessed answer was sent from heaven. The hard heart was broken, the iron did float.

Beloved reader, what is your desperate case? What heavy matter do you have in hand this evening? Bring it near. The God of the prophets lives, and lives to help his believers. He will not allow you to lack any good thing. Believe in the Lord of hosts! Approach him pleading the name of Jesus, and the iron shall float; you too shall see the finger of God working marvels for his people. According to your faith may it be to you, and yet again the iron shall float.