Matthew 14:17-20 NKJV
And they said to Him, “We have here only five loaves and two fish.” He said, “Bring them here to Me.” Then He commanded the multitudes to sit down on the grass. And He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples; and the disciples gave to the multitudes. So they all ate and were filled, and they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments that remained.
The feeding of the 5000 is a powerful passage from which we can learn several things concerning being a good steward of the resources God has given us.
One of the first things we learn is that its not what you start with but what you do with it. We all begin somewhere with something no matter how small. The parable of the talent emphasises this same principle when it says “each was given according to their ability.”
When Jesus received the 5 loaves and 2 fish, they were small compared to the need before him but watch his attitude, he did not complain or worry instead he gave thanks. You and I cannot be good stewards of the resources given to us if we have a rotten attitude. Even with the little, his attitude and desire was to give. He did not think of giving when he had a lot but when he had little.
Jesus multiplied what was given to him and this is what God expects with all of us. This is also something we see in the parable of the talents. The master came back expecting multiplication and the servant who did not multiply was given a harsh punishment.
Jesus also ordered the people to sit down in groups, this talks or order and management. God expects us to be orderly and organised with the resources he gives us. In fact in this scenario, order came before the multiplication.
Lastly, Jesus ordered the disciples to collect the left over food and they collected 12 baskets full. This teaches us not to be wasteful with the resources that God gives us. We should be careful with every crumb.
Reflective Thoughts.
What is your attitude especially when the resources you have are small?
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How can you become more organised and orderly with the resources God has given you?
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What’s your attitude towards giving especially when you have little?
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