Exodus 9-1 1, Matthew 15:21-39 • Key Verses: Genesis 15:32—33

In these verses we read of another crowd at mealtime. This time, however, it’s Jesus who points out the need for food. The previous time the need was brought up by the disciples. Just as before, however, they appeal to their apparent inadequacy.

Their question, “Where could we get enough bread in this remote place to feed such a crowd?” is responded to with a question: “How many loaves do you have?” (vv. 33-34). Five loaves and two fish were more than enough before, their collective lunch this time is seven loaves, a few small fish—and Jesus.

It is amazing to see how slow the disciples were to understand His power. They had not yet learned the lesson from the previous miracle when the 5,000 were fed. No wonder Jesus at times called them men of little faith.

Once again the disciples were confronted with their inability. Once again He had them state how much food they had. This provided the evidence that what followed was truly a miracle. Once again they saw Jesus’ ability.

Like the disciples, sometimes we are slow learners. We need to keep our faith growing. Our faith grows as we feed on the Word, learning what it says and living it daily. Keep reading, learning and living the Bible.

Is God setting before you a task you think is too great? This passage challenges you to place what you have in His hands and let Him work through you.

Woodrow Kroll & Tony Beckett
www.backtothebible.in