Tuesday 7 Dec 2021

December 7: Matthew 14:13-21

Key Verse: Matthew 14:16
Jesus replied, ‘They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.’

Devotion:
What sort of attitude do you think you have toward the people who are in need around you – yes, those in need around you! Far too often we think of the people in need as being others who are in a different country, far away or with some other physical barrier between them and us. Jesus did not turn His back on any people instead, encouraging the needy to come to Him!

Another trait is to think we cannot do anything for ‘them’ because they are too far gone or you think you just cannot spare enough to make a difference. Jesus started making the difference one person at a time; but this demonstration of His love and power went beyond anything the disciples could imagine!

They were trying to be compassionate by seeing how people may have been struggling, or getting weary… so they told Jesus to send the people away so they could at least go and feed themselves! Jesus answer must have stunned them at first: ‘feed them!’ Not what they were expecting! After having a quick ask around they came to the conclusion they had five loaves and two fish – probably just enough to give themselves a light snack before resting for the evening.

Jesus gave the problem to God knowing God was going to come through. He asked God to bless the food and then started dishing it out, and out, and out! God continued to provide because the people were in need. When we feel like we have no way of helping, we need to get God involved so we can give Him the glory for what He will do!

Points to Ponder:
Do you always give thanks to God?

Will you ask God to help you help someone else?