Today’s Scripture
Live in harmony with each other. Romans 12:16 – NLT
Today’s Devotion
Have you ever read Oliver Twist? (Or watched Oliver!) If so, then you know about the plight of British orphans in the 1800s. Homeless children had to survive on their own. Those old enough to work were put in factories and workhouses. Many – especially infants – died. Thousands more lived on the streets or wherever they could find shelter.
George and Mary Muller felt God calling them to help orphaned children. In 1836, they opened their home to 30 girls, offering food, shelter, and love that only a mother and father could give. Soon, they were caring for 130 children. By 1870, the Mullers were caring for nearly 2,000 children. But not once did they ask people for financial support. That – the money issue – they prayed about together.
George and Mary Muller repeatedly faced difficulties caring for so many children. But when a need arose, they prayed together and asked God to provide. God provided food, new housing, and money for repair bills. God even cared for the Muller’s reputation. A rumor circulated in London, England, that Muller’s orphans were starving. To his surprise, Charles Dickens (of Oliver Twist fame!) visited the orphanage and found that the children were well-fed and cared for. He was so impressed by Muller’s work that he wrote several articles in his weekly newspaper column promoting the orphanages.
When Mary Muller died in 1870, George preached at her funeral. In his message, he described Mary’s work: “Up to the very last she was at work for the Lord. Even on her death-bed she gave directions for this thing and another thing to be done connected with the honor of the Lord.”
Because George and Mary Muller prayed together, God gave them everything they needed to help 10,000 British orphans. George kept track of the many times he and Mary prayed. Before he died in 1989, he wrote that God had answered the couple’s prayers more than 50,000 times.
The Mullers accomplished much because they lived “in harmony with each other” (Romans 12:16) and spent time praying together.
Today’s Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us live in harmony with each other. Remind us to bring our concerns and needs to you – together – in prayer. Amen.
