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In his
book "Miracles in Black", Dr. John C. Wengatz tells of an African
convert who was left at a new mission station to carry on the Lord's work
with a cannibal tribe. It was the dry season when Joao Mbaxi took over, but
soon the tropical rains would be coming. Month after month went by, however,
without a cloud appearing in the sky. Then came the time for the normal dry
period. By now everyone was suffering, and many were on the brink of
starvation. In all the years they had worshipped their ancient gods, the
rains had never failed them, and so Joao was told that he must leave the
country and take "the white man's God" with him. The courageous
Christian refused to go. Then, flushed with anger, the chief sullenly warned,
"If your God is as good as you say and so powerful that He rules the
sky, why doesn't He send us the needed showers? If it doesn't rain by sunrise
tomorrow, we will drink your blood and eat your flesh!" Recalling the
Biblical account of Elijah, Joao went to his hut and prayed for divine help
with the same urgency as that of the ancient prophet. |
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Meanwhile
the members of the tribe waited for the dawn when the Christian leader would
become the victim of their horrible feast. Just before daylight, thunder was
heard in the distance, lightning flashed across the sky, and abundant rain
refreshed the entire region! As a result, the believer was able to continue
his work for Christ. Elijah's God still lives! Let us therefore face our
moments of crisis with faith instead of fear. Those who pray like the prophet
of old will find the Lord pouring out His blessings with the same plenteous
supply! |
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From:
2700-PLUS SERMON ILLUSTRATIONS By Duane V. Maxey |