A Profound Transformation
George Müller, born in 1805 in Prussia, had a tumultuous early life characterized by theft, deceit, and gambling. However, his life underwent a profound transformation after attending a prayer meeting in 1825. It was there that he encountered the grace of Jesus Christ, which inspired him to embrace a life of faith and become a missionary.
The Bristol Orphanage
Müller's journey led him to Bristol, England, where he founded the Scriptural Knowledge Institution and, in 1836, opened an orphanage. Faced with the plight of orphans due to a cholera epidemic, he was determined to rely solely on prayer and God's provision. He famously resolved never to ask anyone for money, trusting that God would supply all needs.
Miraculous Provision
One of the most remarkable instances of this provision occurred one morning when there was no food for the 300 children under his care. Müller instructed the children to sit at the table and thank God for the food they were about to receive. Miraculously, a baker knocked on the door with fresh bread, and a milkman's cart broke down outside, providing milk. Müller believed these events were not mere coincidence but evidence of God's faithfulness.
Over his lifetime, Müller recorded over 50,000 specific answers to prayer, including gifts like a £10 donation when funds were low and an unexpected cheque for £1,000 for the orphanage's expansion. His unwavering trust in God's provision allowed him to care for over 10,000 children, providing them with education, training, and a hopeful future.
An Enduring Legacy
Müller's legacy is a testament to the power of faith and prayer. His life, dedicated to demonstrating God's reliability, inspired many, including Dr. Barnardo, to continue caring for orphans. As Müller once said, "Tell not man, but God your needs," a principle that defined his extraordinary ministry.
