Follow Useful Processes
Rev. Enoch Thompson | April 5, 2024 | John 6:5-11
KEY VERSE:
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. John 6:11 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
While in the matters of our faith and practice, we do not want to become controlled by formula and procedure, for that is the way of magic, we do not want to miss the fact that process is important, and formula affects the outcome. Preparing palm-nut soup requires certain steps that can only be missed with disastrous consequences. What we do and how we go about it matters.
In meeting the needs of the multitudes, the Lord Jesus followed what we may call a process, that offers some lessons for handling the solutions to life’s challenges.
The Lord took the loaves. The loaves were what was available. In every situation, there is what is available. We must learn to take what is available and take charge of it. The limited meagre resources of believers and the Church must be taken and taken account of. When we fail to access what we have been given already we disqualify ourselves from receiving the interventions of God.
Next, the Lord Jesus gave thanks. We must learn to give thanks to God. When we give thanks, we acknowledge God and invite Him to do what only He can do. A grateful God-honouring attitude will predispose Heaven to release showers of blessing upon us.
Finally, we must be orderly in managing what blessings God gives us. We note that the people had been made to sit down on the grass (verse 10), and now the multiplied food was distributed in an orderly manner. May our blessings not lead to a stampede which causes offences and casualties.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Don’t get overwhelmed with your needs, organise yourself for your blessings.
PRAYER:
Dear Lord, how I struggle and fret, and miss your calm interventions for my needs. Please help me to be still, and to know that you are God.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: GAVE THANKS The Greek word used for "gave thanks" in this verse is "εὐχαριστήσας" (eucharistēsas), which is derived from "eucharisteō," meaning to give thanks or express gratitude.
The act of giving thanks before performing the miracle demonstrates Jesus' attitude of gratitude and reliance on His heavenly Father. It also serves as a model for believers to approach life with thanksgiving and trust in God's provision.
Jesus' act of giving thanks foreshadows the deeper spiritual significance of the miracle that is about to take place. Just as Jesus gives thanks before multiplying the loaves and fish, He ultimately gives thanks for sacrificing His own body, which becomes the ultimate source of spiritual nourishment for all who believe in Him.
Reflections:
How often do we pause to give thanks to God for His provision and blessings, even in the midst of challenges? How can cultivating a spirit of gratitude enhance our faith and trust in God's provision?
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