Kitchen Cabinet Cash - Barbara Beyer

"I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches in secret places that you may know that I am the Lord God." Isaiah 45:3

Being the mother of five children can stretch the budget; and that’s exactly the predicament I found myself in as our family discussed impending school expenses.

In three days, fees for field trips were due for my younger girls, and our son needed at least twenty dollars to contribute to a white elephant sale for his high school trip.

I panicked as I looked at the checkbook. How could I possibly tell the children there wasn’t enough money for these activities? My mind raced back to the cliché, ‘the straw that broke the camels back.’ Our camel was overloaded and I had just been handed the straw.

Before bed that night, I called the kids into the living room for Bible study. We read Isaiah 45. It was a wonderful read and after a few comments, we gathered in a huddle on our knees to pray.

The next day I decided to clean out the cupboards above the refrigerator. I hadn’t done it in a very long time. As I rummaged through the contents, I came across an envelope shoved to the very back, behind a butter warmer. Eighty dollars lay folded in the envelope—hidden in a dark, secret place so I’d not be tempted to spend it. I had been saving for a special occasion that never transpired and I’d forgotten about the money.

As I stood holding the envelope in my hand, the Lord brought the scripture back to me, I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches in secret places that you may know that I am the Lord God. I was elated. Without knowing it, I had saved for a rainy day. Now I could turn in my straw and prepare the camels.

When we put our efforts into God, He promises to help us succeed. He provides for us in ways we never imagine. I’d saved, but forgotten, then God reminded me when the time was right.

What do you have hidden away that God can use? From talents, to time, to finances, God can use them all. Commit to the Lord whatever you do and all your plans will succeed. He provides fully for His children.



Barbara ‘Annie’ Beyer was born and raised in the ‘Motor City’ where life happens at a very fast pace. Five years ago she and her husband moved to Florida. Barbara is the mother of five wonderful children and ten grandchildren. Tucked away in her secret place of expression are her paintings of home and family. Her work includes nearly one hundred songs she has composed, along with inspirational poems. Her desire is to be used by God to encourage and edify others no matter what the task.
Read Barbara's devotions.