3 Important Lessons God Taught My Family During a Government Shutdown

Spiritual Life

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By Victoria Riollano, Crosswalk.com

I never quite understood famines.

Throughout the Bible, we see times of famine and drought. Honestly, I have often glazed over the verses concerning these times of peril. I had no connecting point or interest in how it felt to live through a famine.

As a middle-class American, I could always attest that I was in no way poor. I never had to wonder where my next meal would come from. Even if life got so bad that I had to eat ramen and grill cheese sandwiches daily, I can only count a few days I’ve ever gone to bed hungry. I’ve never wondered if and when crops would grow or rain would come. Truthfully, there was never a “famine in my land” like the Bible describes.

There was a time, however, when I had an up-close encounter with wondering and even worrying about what would happen to my family’s welfare.

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"For the first time in my life, I completely understood the emotion of a famine."

In late 2018, Americans learned that the government would be shut down. This was not my first experience with a shutdown. However, there was another aspect this time that was different. Every branch of the military would be paid except one, the U.S. Coast Guard. There were no provisions made to ensure we were covered. As I watched the news of military members in line waiting for food and crying on news broadcasts, I couldn't help but think, “What are we going to do?” Even with the money saved, there wouldn’t be enough to cover the “months to years” that the politicians say this may take. As a Coast Guard family of 8, with one primary worker, this sudden change in our reality created an emotional hurricane. It was made apparent that we would need God to help us.

For the first time in my life, I completely understood the emotion of a famine. The uncertainty of how food would be purchased, lights would be kept on, and cars would be fueled became a reality. Though this was far from a biblical famine and we were still privileged in many regards, there was a harsh reality that this could be a life-changing time for everyone involved.

Regardless of how we felt about the President and those at the White House, politics had not been of importance. Taking care of our children, guarding our mental health, and praying to God for a miracle took the forefront. Yet, in the midst of it all, God had shown us that He was a provider.

During that time, He taught me three things I will never forget and I must share with you.

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1. God does not forget His children.

Although I’ve always known this, the shutdown showed me without a doubt that He cares. All over the country, I had friends share about how people blessed them beyond measure. There were stories of people receiving diapers, groceries, gift cards, and large sums of money from strangers. Even in my own home, people we’d never met had deposited money in our account simply because the Lord told them to. Every donation reminded us that He had not and would not forget about us. This is the God we serve. When we seek His face, He’s sure to answer and bless us beyond what we could imagine.

In my distress I called upon the LORD; I cried out to my God. And from His temple He heard my voice, and my cry for help reached His ears. 2 Samuel 22:7

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2. Don’t allow pride to halt your blessing.

During the second week of the shutdown, a friend messaged asking if I needed help. Of course, I said ”no.” I was too prideful to accept a donation. Afterwards, I was immediately convicted.

What if God wanted to use them to help us in that situation?

The Lord spoke clearly, “I want to rain down blessings on you, but you won’t allow me to.”

The next morning, I woke up and told my husband, “From this moment forward, the Lord says we will accept what people offer because He wants to bless us in this time.”

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"It was our reminder that God had not and will not forget us."

Within 72 hours of changing my thoughts and refusing to walk in pride, five different people put money in my PayPal or Cash App (without us even asking). Was it enough to cover every bill and need? Not at all. But, it was our reminder that God had not and would not forget us. I couldn't help but keep hearing this verse in my head!

And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:19

Friends, there may be people who really want to help you in your lowest moments. When we say no, we are blocking our blessings. Accepting the gift is not just for you, but for the other person as well. Allow people to bless you unashamed, knowing that it’s the Father who’s providing for you. He will use people to pour out the blessings, but He wants your heart to be open to receive it.

And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. - Hebrews 13:16

3. It’s easy to have faith when it’s easy to have faith.

In other words, true faith arises in adversity. We can become so complacent in our view of God when things are good. However, how well do you trust God when things are difficult? In times like this, God tests our perspectives and our faith. This is why James 1:2-3 tells us to count it ALL joy! Although it is not easy to wonder when you will get paid again, it’s delightful to know you have a God who cares for you even in desperate times. He will put you in the hearts of people. He will give you favor in securing extra income. He will show His ability to care for you in it all. The question is, will we believe it? Do we EXPECT God to move and answer on our behalf?

This situation had caused my faith to arise like never before. I’d seen His goodness and believed this was just the beginning of the testimony of what he would do. I had no doubt that God would take care of us.

"...God will see to it that you are taken care of."

I challenge you to stay of good courage if you are facing the shutdown and feeling anxious. Though you may wonder how you will get through it, I can assure you that God will see to it that you are taken care of. It may not be in the way you expected, but it will be exactly what you need. Today, my prayer is that you realize you can have victory even in the toughest moments. God can move radically on your behalf. He is a good God and doesn’t forget His children.

Dear God,
Help me to see the light at the end of this tunnel. Provide for me like only you can. Touch my heart and awaken my mind to what you have for me. I trust you and thank you. Keep me safe in your embrace and help me to encounter your presence even in my despair. In Jesus' name. Amen.

This article was originally published on VictorySpeaks.org.

Are you facing this same reality, or know somebody currently going through it? Share your story and connect with other believers on Crosswalk FORUMS!

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Victoria Riollano is an author, blogger, and speaker. As a mother of six, military spouse, Psychology professor and minister’s wife, Victoria has learned the art of balancing family and accomplishing God’s ultimate purpose for her life. Recently, Victoria released her book, The Victory Walk: A 21 Day Devotional on Living A Victorious Life. Her ultimate desire is to empower women to live a life of victory, hope, and love. She believes that with Christ we can live a life that is ALWAYS winning. You can learn more about her ministry at victoryspeaks.org.