"Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish. When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets..."

John 6:11-13

Jesus devised a little ‘test’ (v. 6), presumably to see if his disciples had learned to focus on the who rather than the where or how. Yet, despite having watched their Master perform many wonders, both Philip and Andrew failed to factor Jesus into the equation. In contrast to the disciples, who focused on what seemed an insurmountable problem, Jesus looked up to his Father with thanksgiving and trust (v. 11). Giving thanks is far more than an expression of gratitude for gifts; it is also recognition of the greatness of the Giver of all good gifts. Giving thanks was followed by giving out (distributing) the bread and trusting God to meet the great need. Philip only thought in terms of ‘a bite’ (v. 7)—a little snack to stave off those hunger pangs!—but Jesus provided not just ‘enough’ but abundantly (vv. 12, 13)! As Paul reminds the Philippians, God meets all our needs, not out of, but ‘according to’—that is, in proportion to—his great ‘riches’ (Phil 4:19).

Apply

Problems may seem insurmountable. Our strength may fail. But God reminds us, ‘My grace is enough; it’s all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness’ (2 Cor 12:9).

Closing Prayer

Father in Heaven, thank you that, when my troubles seem ‘larger than life itself,’ I can come to you, confident in your care and great strength to help me (edited from Encounter with God).