January 13, Evening

C. H. Spurgeon · Modern retelling

"The iron did swim." — 2 Kings 6:6 · KJV

The axe-head seemed hopelessly lost; and as it was borrowed, the honor of the prophetic band was likely to be imperiled, and so the name of their God compromised. Contrary to all expectation, the iron was made to rise from the depth of the stream and swim; for things impossible with man are possible with God. I knew a man in Christ, only a few years ago, who was called to undertake a work far exceeding his strength. It seemed so difficult that the bare idea of attempting it appeared absurd; yet he was called to it, and his faith rose with the occasion. God honored his faith; unlooked-for aid was sent, and the iron did swim. Another of the Lord's family was in grievous financial straits. He could have met all claims, and much more, if he could have realized a certain portion of his estate, but he was overtaken by a sudden pressure; he sought friends in vain, but faith led him to the unfailing Helper, and lo, the trouble was averted, his footsteps were enlarged, and the iron did swim. A third had a sorrowful case of depravity to deal with. He had taught, reproved, warned, invited, and interceded, but all in vain; old Adam was too strong for young Melanchthon, and the stubborn spirit would not relent. Then came an agony of prayer, and before long a blessed answer was sent from heaven; the hard heart was broken, and the iron did swim. Beloved reader, what is your desperate case? What heavy matter do you have in hand this evening? Bring it here. The God of the prophets lives, and lives to help His saints; He will not suffer you to lack any good thing. Believe in the Lord of hosts! Approach Him, pleading the name of Jesus, and the iron shall swim; you too shall see the finger of God working marvels for His people. According to your faith be it unto you, and yet again the iron shall swim.