At Home with Susan
Monthly Column by Susan Sikes

Not too long ago, my son had our youth minister and his girlfriend over to swim. While they were swimming, I was cooking dinner. I really wanted them to stay and eat with us. I thought about what a great opportunity this would be to offer a little hospitality, plus they are just fun to be around. The only problem was that we were trying tilapia for the first time, and I had only bought a small portion.

I quickly looked into the freezer to see if we had anything else to go along with it. The Lord multiplied that meal with a bag of shrimp and some leftover rice. What a lovely meal it turned out to be! Although I was tempted to tell my son not to eat too much, I put it in the Lord’s hands. He knew my heart and provided. Not only did we have plenty, we had enough for leftovers the next day.

I am reminded of times like this that occurred in the Bible. In 2 Kings 4:42-44, Elisha fed 100 men with only 20 loaves of bread. He also had leftovers. As amazing as this is, it was only a preview of what was to come when Jesus fed over 5,000 people with only five loaves of bread. That is approximately one loaf for every thousand people! After everyone ate until they were full, they picked up 12 baskets full of bread.

The Lord has the power to multiply, not only our food, but our talents, tithes, offerings, and efforts as well. I truly believe that the only limitations He has in blessing us are the ones we put on Him. Instead of worrying about things and limiting the Lord, let’s give it all to Him and let Him do the multiplying.

Quick & Easy Shrimp
(This recipe is not measured; spices are optional)

Desired amount of Shrimp, fresh or frozen
Chopped Onion
Garlic
Butter or Margarine
Seasoning Salt
Black Pepper
Red Pepper Flakes
Cilantro, chopped

Sauté shrimp, garlic, and onion in butter. Add in spices. Simmer until cooked through; shrimp will turn pink. In the last minute or so, add cilantro. Serve over rice.

© 2007 by Susan Sikes of Out of the Nest & Beyond.