The Lord had heard His people's request and had done the work necessary to give them complete victory over their enemies. The Israelites should have remained quiet and satisfied with what they would receive; however, they felt that the request that would please God the most had to be brought to light in prayer: an increase in the number of men. So the Most High told them that He would multiply them. God answered them!

         No Christian should be so carnal as to hinder the work being done by the Holy Spirit, as He instructed: And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever — (John 14.16). The apostle Peter said: For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” (Acts 2.39). Let God's will be done in His work, even if you have to build a bigger place!

         Seeing Israel agree to pray that men would be sent to strengthen the nation, God decided to multiply them. We know how children are born in the world, in the right proportion between boys and girls, but the Lord's anticipation speaks of the number of men as if they were a flock. In this way, we can understand that the mothers' fertile period would not be lost. The heavenly Father is wise!

         Christians should never pray by chance. When the Holy Spirit works in us, the petition must be in accordance with what we feel has come from Heaven. Those who walk in communion with the Comforter are prepared to be used at any time. Therefore, they need to take advantage of every opportunity to honor God: Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. (Luke 1.38) Be blessed!

         An important detail is that the angel of the Lord, sent to give Mary the good news, departed from her immediately after she accepted the news. Today, those who are filled with the Holy Spirit and receive the divine message don't see Him going away; after all, He is the other Helper who will always help you fulfill your mission.

         Be careful not to call for something without knowing God's purpose for it. He only does what is foreseen in the Bible. Remember: any evil, whether physical, moral or spiritual, is not Heaven's plan for anyone, because Jesus took upon Himself our pains, infirmities, transgressions and iniquities, as well as the punishment that brings us peace (Isaiah 53.4,5). So, refuse what Christ has already suffered in your place. Know the Father's will for your life. The Word is reliable!

          Live to make your congregation grow like a flock. Without a doubt, no gestation period will be wasted, for Thus says the Lord God: “I will also let the house of Israel inquire of Me to do this for them: I will increase their men like a flock. (Ezekiel 36.37).

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares.