A few things stand out to me when I read that passage:
- Jesus saw the multitude and was moved with compassion. He took notice of their condition and had compassion. We serve a compassionate God. Are you a compassionate person?
- Jesus recognized that they were lost, and He started to teach them many things. Did you notice that Jesus started to teach them before performing the miracle? What lessons are you supposed to learn right now in the midst of this season? Are you open to learning in the middle of your tests and trials? (And do you realize that many of your tests are an opportunity to teach someone else?)
- After much time had passed, His disciples came and said, “Look, Jesus, it’s getting late, send them on their way so they can buy themselves something to eat. They are hungry, and they don’t have anything here.” Although it may seem like it’s too late, please know that God is not bound by our limited concept of time. He knows exactly where you are and exactly what you need, even if it seems too late. You really can trust Him. And please know that sometimes the people around you may not have the revelation of why God calls you to move in a certain way at a certain time. They don’t see what God has shown you, so they don’t really understand why you make the choices you make.
- The disciples said, “The people have nothing to eat,” and Jesus replied, “You give them something to eat.” Let me just say, that did something to my spirit. Sisters, you can meet someone else’s need right now. God placed it inside of you. It may be an encouraging word, a morning prayer, a financial blessing, a new opportunity, or even just a listening ear. What I’ve often found is in that moment when I feel like I have nothing left to give, God pulls something extraordinary from me. Jesus told them to look at what they already had. (I could scream right now!)
The Manna Chef 