“But we only have five loaves of bread and two fish” they answered. “Or are you expecting us to go and buy enough food for this whole crowd?” (Luke 9:13, NLT)
“When Jesus said, “Give ye them to eat”, it was not because He expected His disciples to have a plan, but because He wanted them to expect a miracle. Like us however they chose the easier way, the way which does not require the exercise of faith or prayer.”
(from Tables in the Wilderness by Watchman Nee, June 12th)
Jesus had been teaching the crowd all day, when late in the afternoon the disciples bring to His attention the need to send them away to find food and lodging for the night. Jesus responds, “You feed them.”
The disciples respond in the logical way, presenting to Him the problem of their lack of supply and money, and the size of the crowd, which we are told was about 5,000 men.
Jesus was looking to see what they had learned about Him. His desire was for them to have faith in God’s ability to feed the crowd. Had they truly learned that God is able in every situation to do what is needed?
It’s such a familiar story. Searching the crowd, they return with the lunch of a young boy containing five loaves of bread and two fish, probably enough lunch for the lad.
The disciples were correct in their assessment –
it was a limited supply for the large need before them.
Yet how often do I do the very same thing?
I only see what I can do in my own ability. The solution is limited to my own logic and reasoning.
In those challenging times and situations, I need to turn away from my own reasoning and ability, and turn my eyes to God and His immeasurable ability and inexhaustible supply.
God is not limited by my ability and reasoning.
As of late, I keep returning to the book of Habakkuk, his prayer becoming my own prayer:
“I have heard all about you, Lord. I am filled with awe by your amazing works. In this time of our deep need, help us again as you did in years gone by. And in your anger, remember your mercy.” (Habakkuk 3:2, NLT)
My desire is to see God step into situations where only He can work – where babies are birthed instead of infertility. Where employment is obtained instead of rejection letters. Where relationships are mended. Where healing occurs. Where the hungry are fed. The orphans find families. Where peace resides instead of strife.
“Never mind what we can or cannot do;
He is waiting to show us His miracles.”
(Watchman Nee)
Today I am joining … Porch Stories and Let’s Have Coffee and Woman to Woman and Recharge Wednesday .
This is so convicting, Joanne. I see in these words my tendency to either muscle on through in my own strength–or to give up entirely! And in doing so, I miss the miracle every time!
It’s so easy to do one or the other, isn’t it Michele? And yet, I am beginning to learn to wait and look for the miracle. Habakkuk has so much to teach us. May we wait on the Lord and let Him do what only He can do.
Joanne, this is true. It’s a great companion to what I shared about abundance this week. I’m going to share your post on my Facebook page, Twitter, and Pinterest.
I just finished reading your post, Debbie. It is beautiful and so I am sharing the link here for others to be blessed >>>
https://www.debbieputman.com/abundance-everything-need
Needed this today for my dear husband. Praying for the miraculous regarding his job situation. Thank you for the reminders that even when we don’t understand, we can trust that God’s love for us will never fail. There are always miracles waiting to happen, especially in the heartache.
Amy, I am grateful if these words encouraged you. It is most difficult when waiting on God for employment. There are a few currently in my life who are also waiting for job opportunities. I will be praying for your husband as well now. May God give each one favor, opening doors and placing them in the position He has handpicked just for them. Thank you for sharing with me. Blessings!