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July 3 Philip answered Him, “Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, for everyone to receive a little.” One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to Him, “There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are these for so many people?” John 6:7-9. We may exercise all faith, and we may work diligently, but if the blessing of the Lord is absent we have done nothing. In this story where Jesus feeds the 5000, it did not matter what supply of food was present. What mattered only was the blessing of Jesus. Thinking over what happened on this day, I realize that God was working in the life of the little boy who had five loaves of barley bread. Why would he bring five when one would have been sufficient for himself? Jesus knew the loaves would be used. How is it that Andrew knew that this boy had the loaves? Jesus had given him the interest and love to stay in touch with the crowd—and he was directed to this one boy among many. How is it that Andrew had the courage to suggest that the loaves be used, for even he knew they would not be enough for the multitude? Jesus gave him the faith, however small, to mention the loaves anyway. Dear friends, it does not matter if it appears that our resources are inadequate. It does not matter how great the task appears to be. Only the blessing of the Lord is needed. Seek Him first and all that is required will follow. Dear Father, we seek You in all that we do. You are able to prepare the way before us by bringing the right persons and the right resources to every situation. We desire Your presence so that all honor and praise can be given to Jesus. Direct our paths into opportunities for this surrender to Jesus. The opponents against us may seem formidable, but You are greater. Thank You for being constantly with us. Amen. |
