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And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus Philippians 4:19

Carl was driving home when he saw a group of young children selling Kool-Aid on a corner in his neighborhood. They had posted the typical hand scrawled sign over their stand: "Kool-Aid, 10 cents." Intrigued, Carl pulled over to the curb.

A young boy approached and asked if he would like strawberry or grape Kool-Aid. Carl placed his order and handed the boy a quarter. After much deliberation, the children determined he had some change coming and rifled through the cigar box until they came up with the correct amount. The boy returned with the change, then stood by the side of the car. He asked if Carl was finished drinking. "Just about," said Carl. "Why?"

"That's the only cup we have, "answered the boy, "and we need it to stay in business."

This story is both funny and heartwarming. These kids had the drive to start a business, and their willingness to serve was there, but their resources were limited.

Have you ever felt like that? Maybe you’re trying to pour into others — your family, your job, your church — but you feel like you’re working with just “one cup.” Your energy runs low, your patience wears thin, maybe even your faith is lacking, and you wonder how you’re supposed to keep going when you feel like you’re running on empty.

The good news is that God isn’t limited by our resources. Philippians 4:19 reminds us that he meets all our needs — not just some of them, but all of them — according to his riches, not ours. When we rely on our own strength, we will eventually run dry, but when we let God refill us, we can keep serving, loving, and giving without fear of running out of “cups.” God provides more than enough, whether it’s strength, wisdom, patience, or even physical resources.

So, if you feel like you’re running on just one cup today, take some time to ask God to refill you. God has an unlimited supply, and it’s more than enough to keep you going. Just ask, and trust that God will provide exactly what you need.

- alan smith

Lord, sometimes I feel like I don’t have enough to give — whether it’s time, energy, or even patience, but I know you are my source. Help me to trust you to provide for my needs so I can continue to serve others with joy and generosity. In Jesus’ name, amen.