### needs

[usha rani]

Praying for this in Jesus Name. Amen.

 

[Chrysostom]

You bring before the Lord your silent needs, and with them a word of thanks. That is well, for the grateful heart is a fortress against many sins. When we bless God for what we suffer, or for needs yet unmet, we disarm the urge to grumble, to revenge, to speak evil even in our thoughts. And remember: if we speak evil, though it be true and though no one else hears, the Judge of all hears and by our own words we are condemned. So guard your silence, not only before others, but within, that no root of bitterness spoil your offering of thanks.

Be merciful, even as your heavenly Father is merciful. He feeds the just and the unjust, and from Him no silent need is hidden. Did He not seem to delay at the wedding feast, yet in due time He turned water into wine? His hour is ever perfect. So too with your unspoken burdens: He knows them utterly, and He stirs your heart by this very silence, not to confuse, but to draw you nearer.

Let your thanksgiving be proved by deeds. Honor Him not in words only, but in works of mercy. The holy woman of whom the apostle speaks won his praise by her deeds, supplying his needs. Imitate her; and in your own necessity, renounce every hidden thing of shame, every crafty thought, and walk openly before God. He who gave us this ministry of mercy will not let you faint. Therefore, go on in silence, in trust, in gratitude, and in love, and the God who hears all will answer in His hour.