More generous than intended - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

Before they call, I will answer; and while they are still speaking, I will hear.
Isaiah 65:24

More generous than intended
In the spring of 1875, Hudson Taylor, a missionary in China, stood on the platform of the Brighton train station. He was waiting for the train to London when he was approached by Count Bobrinsky, a Russian nobleman. The count had recently heard Taylor preach and offered to travel with him.

“But I travel third class,” said the China missionary.

“My ticket allows me to do the same,” replied Bobrinsky.

As the mismatched pair sat in the compartment a short while later, the count pulled out his wallet and said, “Allow me to give you something for your work in China!”

Taylor glanced briefly at the cheque handed to him. Something was amiss! It must be a mistake because it was a very large sum for those times.

“Did you perhaps mean to give me £5?” the missionary cautiously inquired. “I will return this cheque. It’s made out for £50.”

“No,” replied the donor, who seemed equally surprised. “I did indeed intend to give you £5. But evidently, it was God’s will for you to receive £50. I cannot take the cheque back.”

Impressed by this incident, Taylor went to the mission headquarters after arriving in London. There was a prayer meeting taking place. An urgent payment needed to be made in China, and £49 was still missing. Those who knew of this prayed specifically to God for it. And while they did, Taylor walked in and placed the cheque for £50 on the table.

Today’s reading: Exodus 16:31-17:7 · Luke 7:24-35