Daily Bible

Scripture

Genesis 48:1-49:33
Matthew 15:29- 16:12
Psalm 20:1-9
Proverbs 4:20-27

Reflection

This New Testament passage, like the feeding of the five thousand (14:15-21), reminds us of Jesus' power and care for us.

He heals the multitudes (15:29-31)
He acts out of compassion for their need (v. 32)
He provides for them (15:33-39).

What simple encouragement! The Lord of Heaven and Earth feels compassion for us and flows into our lives with healing and provision. Thanks be to God! One other item to rejoice in here: God does all this in spite of our reluctance to trust him. Think about it. The disciples have witnessed the feeding of the 5,000 already. They have seen what this Jesus can do with just a small amount of food. Now they face a smaller crowd with the same need and when the subject of feeding them is brought up by Jesus, they lapse into the same questions and doubts that it can be done!

Even more sad or funny depending on how you read it, is the account of them in the boat with Jesus afterward. Jesus is warning them about the deceptive teaching (yeast) of the Pharisees and they're fighting because nobody remembered to bring bread with them! Thank God that Jesus, the Bread of Life, promises to care for us and continues to work in our lives even when we still don't believe He can fill our baskets of doubt with hope for tomorrow. Is there something you are trusting God for today? Don't lose heart! He is able to do more than you can imagine.

Prayer

Jesus, Bread of Life, fill my heart with the peace that knows you are able to provide for my life and the grace to know that no matter what happens, you are completely worthy of my trust. In seasons of plenty and in times of want I will hold onto you. In your name, Amen