Fanny Crosby: Five Dollars

One day, I wanted the modestly substantial amount of five dollars for a particular purpose, and needed it very badly. I did not know, just then, exactly how to get it: and was led in my mind to pray for it. Somehow, I knew the good Lord would give it to me if I asked him for it—though exactly how, I did not know.

Not long after I had prayed for the money, a gentleman came into the house, "passed the time of day", shook hands with me, and went out immediately. When I closed my hand, after the friendly salutation, I found in it a five-dollar bill, which he had left there.

I have no way to account for this, except to believe that God, in answer to my prayer, put it into the heart of this good man, to bring me the money.

My first thought, after finding out the pecuniary value of this little silken reminder of friendship and regard, was, "In what a wonderful way the Lord helps me! All the way my Savior leads me!”

I immediately wrote the hymn, and Dr. Robert Lowry, the famous clergyman and hymn writer, set it to music.

I could mention here, many and many a case, in which I have had direct answer to prayer. I have never had the least reason to doubt the practical usefulness of that promise that if we ask we shall receive. Our Savior is so willing not only to lead us, but to supply our wants, if we will only ask Him."

Fanny J. Crosby (1820-1915) in Fanny Crosby's Life-Story, by Herself (New York: Every Where Publishing Company, 1903) 129.

This is the seventh of seven posts from this book at this time. Download it in PDF form freely here. Today, enjoy All the Way My Savior Leads Me.

What can write in response to this amazing story? Two things come to mind.

First, I note that she collaborated with yet another person, this time, Dr. Robert Lowry. This inspires me to ask every likeminded person I know in the world to help me spread the message of Christian generosity to every generation in everything.

Second, I love her prayer for five dollars. She directed her need to God. And then challenges us all in her own words: "Our Savior is so willing not only to lead us, but to supply our wants, if we will only ask Him."

Let us conclude the week with a reading from Philippians 4:4-7 as a benediction to all we have learned and what we gain from this story.

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Worship Jesus today. If you have needs or wants, spill them out before Him. Surrender yourself to Him, and trust Him to lead, guide, and provide. Even as He did five dollars for Fanny, He can do anything for you!