Reflection: God, our provider

In 1980, the Niger (W. Africa) we arrived in was at the point of ecological collapse, and barely able to support life. The original forests had largely been cleared, drought had become a regular occurrence, crop failure was common – people were poor and suffered from recurring hunger. Displacement and conflict often ensued. Niger appeared to reflect the exact opposite of the biblical picture of God’s abundance and bounty (seen in Genesis 1:29 and 2:8) and his provision for everything we need for life – our physical and spiritual needs.

One day, beside the road on the way to the villages I said a heartfelt prayer, asking God to forgive us for destroying the gift of his creation, leaving people hungry, poor and fearful of what tomorrow might bring. I reminded God that we were his children and that he still loved us – and asked him to show us what to do.

God answered that prayer. We did learn how to restore the land and vegetation – and, through his restored creation, God provided for people’s physical needs as the land became more productive and resilient to climatic and environmental shocks. The method developed, Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration, has helped millions of poverty-stricken farmers to better provide for their families and is now spreading around the world.  The change only came after my prayer of repentance. Are we willing to say sorry to God for our part in destroying his creation?

Prayer:

Forgive us for destroying the gift of your creation, leading to people often going hungry, being poor and fearful of what the future may bring. God, we can see that creation is suffering, and this is hurting people all around the globe. But you still love us. Show us what to do to repair the damage.