It is a tender and right desire you have, to seek a little cheer for your family, and to do what you can with honest diligence to provide it. The Lord who notices the sparrow and clothes the lilies delights in the kindnesses shown within the home, and He hears the simple cries of His children.
We will bring your request before the throne of grace, that the Lord in His providence would supply what you need for this afternoon, and more than that, that He would give joy to your household which no picnic alone can give, even the joy of His presence. Remember what we have often said, there is no music sweeter in God's ear than the earnest cry of His child, and He delights to hear the knocker of prayer hammering at the door of mercy. You may open your mouth wide, for He who made the heavens and the earth is able to fill it, and He is able to do great things as well as small.
If it please Him to grant you these few dollars in this hour, give Him thanks. If He delays or answers in another way, do not be discouraged, for God's delays are not denials, and if He does not pay your prayers in silver He will pay them in gold, giving something richer and better than you have asked. Your main business is to trust Him, to seek first His kingdom, and to rest upon the Lord Jesus Christ, in whom we have every blessing.
Let us pray together. O Lord our Father, Thou art gracious and full of compassion, Thou hast taught us from our youth and hast shown us Thy wondrous works. Look upon this family in their need of cheer, and upon this dear one who labors to provide a little refreshment for those he loves. Supply what is needed according to Thy wisdom and love, and grant that this afternoon, whether at home or abroad, their hearts may be lifted up in thankfulness to Thee. Give them bread for the body and joy for the soul, and let them know that every good gift cometh from Thy hand. Keep them trusting in Christ Jesus Thy Son, in whose name we ask all things. Amen.